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Easter Island: Exploring the world’s most remote, inhabited island

Posted April 15th, 2012 by Molly Demmer



Written by Linda Bendt for Tonka Times Magazine

Few places in the world can be identified by a single, iconic photograph. Egypt with its Great Pyramids. China with its Great Wall. Peru with its sites at Machu Picchu. And for those who truly appreciate travel, photographs such as those innately provoke a desire to explore. To learn about and appreciate the lives and traditions of those who came before us. To inhale the beauty of the landscape and the mystique of its being.

For those travelers who yearn for something a bit different, something magical, something in which few others have photographs to share, we take you on the journey to Easter Island.

An Abundance of Historic Richness

Claimed to be the most remote inhabited island in the world (more than 1,200 miles lie between it and the nearest inhabited place), Easter Island was so named in 1722 when the Dutch mariner Jacob Roggeveen arrived there on Easter Sunday. It was later re-named Rapa Nui (Big Island) by western mariners during the 19th century because of its similarity to Rapa Iti Island, located far to its west. For most, it’s the Easter Island name that seemed to stick.

However, long before these explorers set sail in the Pacific Ocean, skilled Polynesian mariners had ventured far into the expanses to explore and colonize even the most remote places – Easter Island among them.

Once settled, the Polynesian people established the Rongorongo, their system of hieroglyphic script, and one of their most noteworthy developments – the Moai. These statues, believed to have been built between 1100-1680 AD, were hand chiseled from volcanic rock and took a team of 5-6 men nearly a year to complete just one sculpture. Nearly 900 Moai have been inventoried over the centuries.

The statues, each reflecting a male’s head and torso, played a significant part in the lives of local people. Built as a means to worship their ancestors, Moai were believed to possess the special powers of mana, the sources of wealth, prestige and legitimacy for the ruling class. Today, visitors to Easter Island can observe more than 100 of the Moai still standing.

Easter Island, Courtesy Explora

A Proud But Diminishing Culture

The inhabitants of Easter Island, known as the Rapanui, are proud of their origins. And, because they experienced extreme loss of life early in their island living, the elders knew they would rely on generations to come to carry on their traditions. Today, with such few Rapanui people in the world (a recent census of Easter Island revealed less than 4,000 residents, only 60% of which are of Rapanui origin), it’s more important than ever to share and preserve their cultural roots.

The relatives of those early inhabitants still preserve many of the original forms of culture through local cuisine, sports, dances (such as the Sau-sau and the Tamure), music, ceremonies, and craftwork. One of the most engaging displays of culture still actively used today is their language – vananga.

Those seeking the best ways to experience the Rapanui’s local culture first-hand should visit the island during Tapati. This 10-day festival takes place each year in late January through early February. Throughout the celebration, two teams compete against each other to determine who will be the “queen” of the island for the coming year. The competition brings these two clans together to race on banana logs through the island slopes, battle it out in surfing and canoe contests, share their skills at traditional song and dance and much more.

Easter Island Activities Courtesy Explora

Extending Beyond Easter Island

Technically part of Chile, Easter Island is 2,200 miles west of the Chilean mainland. Lan Airlines is the only airline that offers flights to the Island. Depending on the season, there are 4-7 flights going each week to/from the gateway of Santiago.

Many visitors exploring Easter Island couple the trip with an inland excursion in Chile. While the country could offer weeks, even months, of independent adventures, pairing it with Easter Island is a great way to see at least one of the country’s vast regions.

The Atacama Desert is one of Chile’s most unique land formations. This 600-mile strip of land west of the Andes on the Pacific coast is considered the driest desert in the world. Visitors often enjoy evenings in Moon Valley, the Tatio Geysers, the altiplanics lagoons and amazing archeological tours.

For those who prefer a more diverse setting, the Patagonia region, stretching from Valdivia to Cape Horn South America, is like no other. Offering an amazing mix of fjords, channels, valleys, glaciers and much more, any nature lover would be sure to swoon over the breathtaking vistas.

If the islands of Polynesia are more your flavor, Easter Island is a great side trip on the way to Tahiti, Bora Bora and other exotic, beautiful locations in the South Pacific. Lan Airlines offers two flights a week to/from Papete (Tahiti). The combination makes for a perfect cultural experience followed by a little R&R on the beach.

For more information about Easter Island, Chile or the Islands of Polynesia, contact us.

Posted in Chile, Easter Island, Tonka Times | No Comments »

Cape Town: Iconic and Eclectic

Posted March 26th, 2012 by Molly Demmer



Written by Linda Bendt for Tonka Times Magazine

Whether you’re a foodie, cultural junkie, wine lover, shopper, or adventure traveler, there is one city in the world that must definitely be on your bucket list – Cape Town, South Africa. Known as one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Cape Town’s charm resides in the diversity of its activities, restaurants and environment.

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and striking land formations on the southwestern point of the African continent, Cape Town lies in the shadow of Table Mountain, towering 3,563 feet above the city and harbor. The central part of the city faces north, toward Table Bay, and is cradled by the iconic Table Mountain (to the south), Lion’s Head and Signal Hill (to the west) and Devil’s Peak (to the east).

Visiting the stunning plateau of Table Mountain is essential for any traveler, but be sure to plan ahead. Clouds frequently roll in, and it’s off limits in cloudy weather. Take advantage of clear skies early in your trip so you don’t miss this amazing site. The easiest way to get to the top of the mountain is to ride the Table Mountain Cable Car. Once at the top, you’ll be able to soak up amazing vistas and hike some of the many trails that meander across the peak.

One of the most visible sites from high atop Table Mountain is Robben Island. This popular tourist attraction is where Nelson Mandela spent almost 20 years as a political prisoner. Now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is open to group tours by boat.

On the slopes of Table Mountain is Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, home to 4,500 species of indigenous flora, including several types of protea and prehistoric cycads. In addition to the unique trees, plants and flowers, Kirstenbosch is a great spot for bird watching. Visit on a Sunday for seasonal sunset concerts and craft markets highlighting the local styles and cultures that make Cape Town distinct.

The Glorious Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

One of Cape Town’s most lively areas is located just north of City Centre, along the harbor – Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Named after Queen Victoria and her son Alfred, this shopping and entertainment district is similar to those found in many U.S. cities but with flair all Cape Town’s own. The renovated warehouses have a range of shopping options and several activities (Two Oceans Aquarium, the boats to Robben Island, the Telkom Exploratorium, an IMAX cinema and more). It’s also a great place to go for some nightlife fun – many glamorous bars, world-famous restaurants and luxurious hotels sprinkle the area.

Those who love to shop may want to take advantage of the treasures found at the waterfront and in other parts of Cape Town. The value of the South African Rand makes the area one of the more affordable places to pick up African souvenirs and artwork. Semiprecious stones, gold and diamonds are reasonably priced and beadwork, woodcarvings, baskets and woven runs are some of the most popular hand-made crafts available.

Exploring the Cape

After you’ve shopped, explored and eaten your way through the city, plan to spend some extended time in the surrounding areas. At the top of the “must see” list is a driving tour of the Cape itself.

The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve is a sprawling 17,300 acres, home to wild antelope, ostriches and baboons, easily viewable from your car. Once you reach Cape Point, be sure to take the funicular (cable railway) from the parking area up to the viewing platform. The vantage point from this majestic spot is breathtaking.

Many visitors to the Cape Town area are aware of one of the region’s most popular residents – the penguins. As you continue your drive around the Cape, plan a stop at Boulders Beach to photograph these birds wandering freely in a protected natural environment.

A City Worth Meeting

Table Mountain, The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and the famous penguins of Boulders Beach barely scratch the surface of Cape Town’s splendor. Alive with storied African history, prominent European influences and thriving modern development, Cape Town’s future is full of promise. Whether you’re a city lover who craves the shopping, dining and cultural experiences or a nature lover who longs for the flora, wildlife and awe-inspiring vistas, be sure Cape Town is on your travel wish list.

Excursions from Cape Town

If possible, allow time on your itinerary to soak up other amazing draws of this region of South Africa. Here are a couple of our favorites:

The Winelands

South Africa is home to some of the world’s best wines – many of which are produced within a 2-hour inland drive from Cape Town. One of the most popular driving tours follows the Stellenbosch Wine Route, a beautiful 45-minute drive from the city.

If time allows, continuing on to Franschhoek is well worth the trip. These quaint towns offer amazing dining options, a wide range of wine tasting opportunities and local shopping experiences – all set within the stunning hills and valleys of wine country.

The Garden Route

This stretch of beautiful coastline winds its way for 125 miles via George, Wilderness, Sedgefield and Knysna on to Plettenberg Bay. The journey culminates at the Tstisikamma Forest – a fairyland of giant trees, ferns and bird life.
There are many side trips and activities you can take advantage of along the route. Scuba diving, bungy jumping, golfing, whale watching, fishing and hiking are just a few activities that are easily available. If a little side adventure is what you’re looking for, try the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, surfing at Jeffries Bay or a safari in Shamwari Reserve.

For more information on Cape Town or other international destinations, contact us.

Posted in South Africa, Tonka Times | No Comments »

Yearning for Some Winter? Explore the Beauty of the Arctic

Posted February 21st, 2012 by Molly Demmer



By: Linda Bendt

No one would deny this hasn’t exactly been the harshest winter Minnesota has ever seen. In fact, those who enjoy winter sports, activities and the beauty of the snow are feeling a little shorted this season. In honor of those winter lovers and the adventure travelers who await ideas for their next expedition, we thought we’d share an intriguing and mysterious destination – The Arctic.

Ice, ice and more ice

For most, the Arctic is synonymous with glaciers, icebergs, ice formations and anything else to do with living in, on or under the ice. And for good reason. The central Arctic Ocean is ice covered year round, and snow and ice are present on land for most of the year.

The Arctic is a region located at the northernmost part of the Earth. It consists of the Arctic Ocean and parts of Canada, Russia, Greenland, the United States, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.

For those travelers curious to visit this northern tundra, the area is home to some of the world’s most sought-after animal viewing – polar bears, arctic fox, walrus, seals, whales, reindeer – and equally beautiful and interesting land and ice formations ever to behold.

A Journey Worth the Trip

Without doubt, getting to the Arctic is an expedition in itself. But the journey there is a large part of the experience. Most people travel first to Norway where they’ll board an expedition ship (most carry less than 200 passengers). These ships are ice-class vessels, which specialize in travel through ice sheets and formations. However, like many typical cruise ships, they provide luxury cabins, dining areas, fitness centers and other amenities.

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of these expedition cruises is the staff on board. Naturalists, photography instructors, undersea specialists (who operate an underwater video camera to share sightings under the surface) and historians (whaling history runs deep here) are just a few of the professionals on board to ensure passengers soak up and experience everything imaginable.

The ships head north, following Norway’s majestic fjord-carved coastline with thousands of islets. Each fjord is different from its neighbor, showcasing roaring waterfalls, granite cliffs and tiny local villages that literally cling to the steep sides of the fjord walls.

Just 350 miles north of Norway’s mainland lies the Svalbard Archipelago, a wilderness region of massive icebergs, deep fjords, ice-capped mountains, and the masters of the Arctic – polar bears. Only 600 miles from the North Pole, Svalbard is the best place on earth to observe polar bears in their natural habitat: on the pack ice.

Many of the expedition ships also carry small, more mobile zodiacs and kayaks so travelers can easily disembark the main ship and get out on the water to further explore the surroundings.

The elusive ‘Ice Bear’

Often called the ice bear, polar bears are meeting difficult challenges in today’s changing global climate. Experts estimate there are as few as 20,000 of these magnificent animals left in the world and in 2008, The US Department of the Interior listed the polar bear as a Threatened Species. As the Arctic continues to warm and their ice homelands melt, researchers fear polar bears could disappear by mid-century.

“Now is definitely the time to witness these amazing animals in their natural habitat,” says Craig Beal of Travel Beyond. “The expedition ships provide an awe-inspiring way to experience them. Whether it’s on floating ice bergs, swimming in the Arctic waters as they hunt or scaling the ice-capped mountains, there are few things that compare. And, unfortunately, we worry that time is running out to see them.”

Clearly polar bears are built for the cold weather. They are insulated by two layers of fur and a thick layer of fat to help keep them warm. Their small ears and tail help prevent heat loss. Ironically, they have more problems with overheating than they do from the cold (especially when they run).

These ice bears grow to staggering sizes. Adult males typically weigh in at 775 to 1,200 pounds and often reach more than 10 feet tall when standing on their hind legs. Adult females are smaller, normally weighing 330 to 650 pounds.

Beyond the Bears

As mentioned, the Arctic surroundings are home to other wonderful wildlife and sea life viewing. However, there is a natural phenomenon that occurs in this part of the world that is a visual experience like no other – the Midnight Sun.

During the summer months in the Arctic, given fair weather, you can see the sun for a continuous 24 hours. The duration of the midnight sun depends on how far north you are. For example, in the northern islands of Svalbard, the sun shines continuously from April 20 to August 22. One hundred twenty-four days of zero darkness! Most areas in Northern Norway experience the midnight sun from mid-May to mid-July.

The Svalbard Islands

Many visitors looking to experience the Arctic often find themselves visiting the northern islands of Svalbard (meaning cold coasts). Consisting of nine main islands, nearly 65 percent of the surface of Svalbard is protected – three nature reserves, six national parks, 15 bird sanctuaries and 1 geo-topical protected area.

More than 60 percent of the total land mass is covered by glaciers and snowfields. In fact, the world’s third largest glacier, Austfonna, lies on Svalbard. In size, this icecap of 124 miles follows only Antarctic and Greenland.

So whether you’re interested in the history of whaling, seeing the Midnight Sun or experiencing the majesty of the ice bear, Norway and the islands of Svalbard might just be the trip for you.

For more information about expeditions to the Arctic, contact us.

Posted in Arctic, Tonka Times | 1 Comment »

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